As an introvert who continues to struggle with my condition, I found a lot to like in this two-part post from Holly Ordway: an introvert’s perspective on sharing your faith in public. Here are some highlights: So when I was an atheist, I would have responded very badly indeed to a Cheerful Extrovert for Jesus … Read more
This is brilliant: an illustrated guide on how to relate to the introverts in your life. It’s just one page, but it’s a long page, so I’m not going to copy it here, but go read it. Here’s one quote that rang profoundly true to me: Introverted people make their own energy and, rather than … Read more
From WSJ.com: Extroverts, those outgoing, gregarious types who wear their personalities on their sleeve, are generally happier, studies show. Some research also has found that introverts, who are more withdrawn in nature, will feel a greater sense of happiness if they act extroverted. Experts aren’t entirely sure why behaving like an extrovert makes people feel … Read more
I’m starting to believe that introversion (“introvertedness”? whatever…) is a legitimate personality type, and introverts shouldn’t be forced into an extrovert mold just because conventional wisdom says that’s normal. However, we live in a world where you have to be able to communicate with people, and that includes introverts. So, I’m glad to hear that … Read more
In support of my ongoing struggle with my own introversion, here’s Susan Cain speaking on the power of introverts. Some of her arguments sound a little forced, but I’m glad to hear anyone challenging conventional wisdom that extroverts are normal and introverts are weird. At least, we’re not weird just because we’re introverts.
Not too long ago, I read something that opened a window onto my own inner life. I’m not sure if this is the exact wording, but it went something like this: “Being an introvert doesn’t mean you don’t like people; it just means you respond to people differently. Extroverts get recharged by being around people. … Read more